A Louisiana mother of three who helped a police officer catch a suspected shoplifter has been honored with a Citizenship Award for her quick thinking and community spirit. Lesli Smith, a resident of Slidell, played a pivotal role in a dramatic chase that unfolded at a Dillards store when she offered her car to Sergeant Jeff Kahrs, who was pursuing Kelsey Baird, a 34-year-old woman from Navarre, Florida. The incident occurred after Kahrs responded to a report of shoplifting at the store, and Baird, who had already discarded the stolen merchandise, fled the premises when confronted by the officer. She jumped into a car driven by her boyfriend, Eric Boudreaux, 43, of Biloxi, Mississippi, and the chase began. Kahrs pursued the suspects until he was joined by Smith, who had offered to assist in the pursuit. Smith’s actions helped Kahrs navigate the chase, leading to the arrest of both Baird and Boudreaux on charges of theft, resisting an officer, and meth possession. Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau praised Smith for her assistance, emphasizing the importance of community support in law enforcement. Smith was presented with the Citizenship Award at a ceremony alongside Mayor Randy Fandal of Slidell. She expressed her pride in her hometown and her admiration for the police department’s dedication, even stating that she returned to shopping at TJ Maxx after assisting in the chase.